juice

So far, January is looking pretty juicy, don’t you think? I do! We’re over a week into 2017 so far, David Attenborough is still alive and so are we. Not bad ey? So far 2017 is strutting its stuff. It’s a good month for us too as we are off to Whistler in 3 days time. Excited doesn’t even cut it. OHMYGODIAMBEYONDECSTATIC is a little closer. Read more

On the last weekend in September, we decided to take a little trip up to Pembrokeshire in Wales. The days are quickly getting cooler and shorter, and we wanted to squeeze in one more trip before we give in to a winter. Succumbing to months snuggled on the sofa next to the fire. We packed up and set off up to Wales. After sitting in a horrendous traffic jam on the M4 for over an hour, we were starting to wonder whether it was such a good idea after all. We stuck it out, and arrived at our chosen camping spot just after dark. Quickly we set up the tent, and hurried off to a warm pub for some food. We awoke the next day to the gorgeous sunshine, and a crazy beautiful view of the ocean and Pembrokeshire coast line. Snuggled under the duvet, admiring that view, the long, tiring journey was soon forgotten.

After a lazy morning we went exploring. We walked the coast line, watched eager climbers trying to find that perfect line, explored a huge cathedral, saw seals swimming in the ocean and enjoyed a picnic on the edge of the cliffs. We braved the ice-cold sea, and ran into the waves. Charlie says it doesn’t count as ‘swimming’ unless you take at least one stroke. I managed 5 before we ran, giggling, back to our towels. The weather was gorgeous, the sky the bluest and the sea crystal clear. The days away from everything are our best days. I am already counting the days until next spring when we can get away again. For now, autumnal hikes and winter walks will take the lead. The coats have made their way out of the back of the wardrobe, hats are on standby, and our log store is full. Winter, we are ready for you.

But first, a refreshing, green smoothie. The kind of thing you might need on a Monday morning after a weekend filled with one too many Mojito’s. You know the kind.

The annual Christmas Market has arrived in Bath. 200 wooden sheds fill the streets, bursting with Christmas gift ideas. It gets so busy, it’s a bit hard to handle some times. But I love to walk around and check out the stalls, browse the gifts and see what is on offer.

Every year one of the hotels sets up an ‘apres ski bar’ outside their reception. A little wooden chalet adorn with all things a la montagnes! It’s so snug in there, seats covered with sheepskin rugs and cosy blankets to snuggle up in. It makes me miss my winter seasons in the alps so much.

Two friends and I decided to pop in here for a drink last week. Upon entry we saw people drinking beer from huge glass wellie boots, and mulled wine from big wooden bowls. As soon as you walked through the door the smell of cinnamon and cloves hit you.

The smell stayed with me, and while I was walking home I started thinking about other Christmas drinks. Anything with rum is a safe bet for me, especially the spiced variety. Conveniently I knew I had some back at the boat. I swung by the supermarket and headed back to the boat to practice my mixology skills.

This drink is the perfect winter warmer. Easy to make a large batch, and a great addition to any Christmas party. It can be served with or without rum.